A broad area of low pressure over the northwestern Caribbean Sea is forecast to gradually develop during the next several days. A tropical depression is likely to form this weekend or early next week as it moves north and enters the eastern Gulf of Mexico. There is a HIGH chance of tropical development through the next 7 days. No local impacts are expected through the weekend, although an increased risk of rip currents is possible by early next week. We will continue to monitor this potential system over the next several days. Now is a good time to review your hurricane plans. For more information, go to our Facebook and Twitter pages or listen to NOAA Weather Radio.